SafeDeposits Scotland Blog

Ask SafeDeposits: Should I have a pet clause in my tenancy agreement?

Why should I let to a tenant with a pet?

The choice to allow a pet to live in your property is entirely up to you, but with almost 12 million households in the UK owning a pet, many landlords and letting agents are increasingly letting to tenants with pets to tap into this growing part of the private rented sector and grow their business.

As the demand for pet-friendly properties still outstrips supply, tenants who find a landlord who will welcome their furry friend will often stay in the property for longer, and are often willing to agree to additional terms, such as an increased deposit.

How should I let tenants know that I'm happy to consider pets living in the property?

We recommend that you advertise properties as "pets considered" so that you can make a decision on accepting pets on a case by case basis. If you use a letting agent to manage your property, you should also make them aware that you will consider pet owners.

I've found a tenant and pet I like - what should I do now?

We spoke to the Dogs Trust, the UK's largest dog welfare charity, who have these tips for landlords on how to successfully let to tenants and their pets:

Ask prospective tenants to provide you with a reference for their pet from their previous landlord so that you can ensure there were no problems in their last property;

Remember to add a pet clause to your standard tenancy agreement when a pet has been agreed;

You may wish to ask your tenant for a higher deposit if they have pets. The money should be held in a government approved tenancy deposit scheme;

It's advisable to keep some information on file about your tenant's pet, such as the contact details of someone who can care for the pet in an emergency;

You may wish to take out a landlord's insurance policy that includes cover for accidental damage caused by pets.

What should I enter in my pet clause in the tenancy agreement?

Once you have decided to rent your property to a tenant with a pet you should include a pet clause in your tenancy agreement. An example of a pet clause would be:

"It is further agreed between the Landlord and Tenant that the Landlord grants permission for the Tenant to keep a pet {insert animal type and breed} named {insert animal name} ("The Pet") in The Property for the duration of the Tenancy. The Tenant agrees not to keep or permit to be kept on the Property any further pets or animals of any description without the previous consent in writing of the Landlord."

You may also want to include a clause related to damage and cleaning of the property at the end of the tenancy:

"The Tenant hereby undertakes and agrees to remedy and pay for any damage caused to The Property and/or contents of The Property. For the avoidance of doubt any such damage shall not be deemed to be fair wear and tear."

"The Tenant agrees to pay for the professional cleaning of the property at the end of The Tenancy including the cleaning of all carpets and treating the property for fleas and mites."